J.Crew responds to critics calling the brand out for irresponsibly styling natural hair

J.Crew has critics calling the brand out for irresponsible hairstyling. (Photo: J.Crew)

J.Crew is being called out on Twitter for irresponsibly styling a black model’s natural hair — and people have a lot to say about it.

Atlanta-based makeup artist Dae Louise took to Twitter to post a screenshot from J.Crew’s website where a model is pictured with what’s supposed to be a “messy bun” — but is really just a mess. The image shows the young woman with her hair sloppily pulled back and edges unlaid, which commenters are saying is the work of a hairstylist who simply doesn’t know how to style black hair.

Others are taking part in the conversation to play devil’s advocate and defend the brand. Pointing out that J.Crew often goes for the “messy” hair look with their models, with users even posting photos of some of the women featured in their catalogues with seemingly similar hair looks.

Not all but some. J Crew is actually known for models with tousled hair. Many of their models get that undone hair look. pic.twitter.com/0Sn8zA1T6v

However, nobody’s been afraid to point out that the tousled look on the white models cannot be achieved the same way on a black model’s natural hair. For that reason, the issue comes down to a lack of experience with black hair, or even a lack of concern.

Friendly reminder that what works for one, doesn't work for all; especially not where hair texture is concerned.

I understand what you guys are saying but this’s isn’t fly always. There’s a difference between hair being so soft and silky it slips undone and there is hair being too short to even begin to put in a bun. They should have just washed her hair and let it curl up.

As for getting the attention of the brand, one user finally tagged J.Crew in her reply where she pointed out the difference between natural and unkempt hair, to which the brand responded.

J.Crew strives to represent every race, gender, and background. We sincerely apologize for the styling of this model and the offense that was caused. We assure you that we are taking steps to address it, and to prevent this from happening again.